IMMIGRATION teams arrested two people in a swoop on a restaurant.

Officers from the UK Border Agency raided Frankie and Benny's at the Park 66 entertainment complex in Pilsworth, Bury, where two Brazilians were arrested on suspicion of working illegally.

Twelve staff members were interviewed before a 25-year-old man and a woman, 22, were arrested and taken to a police station for questioning.

The raid came after a tip-off. It follows the discovery of other illegal workers employed at Frankie and Benny's outlets across the country, UK Border Agency staff said.

Two police and eight immigration officers swooped on the premises before the restaurant began to fill up with customers.

Warning

UKBA officer Paul Harris said: "This is a positive result for us. We had information that people were being employed illegally and conducted an enforcement visit which has resulted in two arrests.

"This could well result in a hefty fine for the employer and serves as a warning to other employers that they have to be vigilant when taking on staff who are foreign nationals. They need to make vigorous checks because ultimately they could pay a high price."

Company bosses will now be investigated and face fines of up to £10,000 for each suspected illegal worker.

The arrested pair could be returned to Brazil if they are found to be working illegally.

Officers also visited a neighbouring Chiquito restaurant and bar but all staff were cleared as working legally. Both chains are owned by The Restaurant Group. A spokesman for the company was not available for comment.

The UKBA helpline for employers is 0845 0106677.